RE: Pattern Plane Progression
My first contest was with a PL Products Partner with a 1.60DZ.
Move up when your bank account can handle it, nobody is going to look down on you for flying a good setup in the lower classes. Don't equate having a top of the line airplane with winning against someone with a smaller airplane, but there are no rules as far as progression.
It's a hobby, do what you want to do!